Major Highways

Major highways in the Capital Region include the north/south Interstate 95 and the Capital Beltway (I-495) that encircles DC, as well as I-395, I-295, I-66, I-270, the Baltimore-Washington Parkway and Dulles Toll Road.

Bike Share

The Capital Bikeshare programme is a network of more than 3,000 bicycles at 400-plus stations across DC, Arlington, Alexandria and Fairfax County in Virginia, and Montgomery County, Maryland. Rental options start at $8 for 24 hours, but 3-day and 30-day usage is also available. Pick up a bike and pedal to wherever your plans take you, with the ability to return your ride at any station nearby.

Metro

The DC Metrorail system covers the DC area plus nearby towns in Virginia and Maryland. Metro SmarTrip® fares range from $1.75-$5.90, depending on the time of day. The Metrobus takes you from Metro stations to many convenient stops around DC, Maryland and Virginia.

Washington Dulles International Airport’s Silver Line Express Bus connects travellers to the Silver Line's Wiehle-Reston East Metrorail station. See the website for timetables and routes. Certain Metro stations might be impacted by an ongoing Metro improvement plan. Visit wmata.com/safetrack to help plan your trip.

Taxi Cabs, Uber & Lyft

Taxis can be hailed on busy streets or at hotels and other landmarks; dispatch may also be called ahead of time to arrange pick-up. Find approximate taxi rates and fees at dctaxi.dc.gov. Tipping 10% to 15% is customary.

Uber, Lyft and similar ride-sharing services are available in many locations.

Car Rental

Travel on your own schedule by renting a car from companies in major airports and larger cities. If you’re staying in Maryland or Virginia, or travelling outside of DC, a rental car makes sense. In DC and adjacent areas, neighbourhoods are pedestrian-friendly and affordable public transportation is readily available.

For a short trip outside the city, consider renting a Zipcar (zipcar.com/dc), available by the hour or day. Although not required, drivers are advised to get an international driving permit before the trip. Although prices vary by location, sample car rental rates are: Compact ($40/day), Standard ($45/day), Full-Size ($50/day) and Luxury ($100/day), plus taxes and fees.

Amtrak Trains

Amtrak trains include comfortable standard and business-class seats, sleeping cars and glass-domed observation cars. The Acela Express and Northeast Regional routes take you quickly to major East Coast cities such as DC, Baltimore, Richmond, Norfolk, Philadelphia, New York City and Boston, as well as Charlottesville, Lynchburg, Newport News, Roanoke, Virginia Beach (via coach transfer) and other cities within the Capital Region.

Discover the Capital Region USA. Experience the best of the Capital Region USA – Washington, DC, Virginia and Maryland – from famous attractions and shopping to beaches, mountains, scenic drives and beyond.